Syphilis Testing Options: How to Screen with a Quick and Accurate Blood Test

Your Options for Testing Syphilis Privately at Home or in a Lab

Syphilis is a serious but curable STD that’s been rising rapidly in recent years — especially among men who have sex with men, people living with HIV, and pregnant individuals. Because syphilis often shows no symptoms until advanced stages, early detection through testing is essential. Fortunately, it’s easy to screen with a simple blood test available through both at-home kits and walk-in lab services.

Why It’s Important to Get Tested for Syphilis

Syphilis is known as the “great imitator” because its symptoms can resemble many other conditions — or not appear at all. In its early stages, it may cause a small painless sore or rash. If left untreated, the infection can progress silently over months or years, eventually harming the heart, brain, nervous system, and other organs.

Testing is crucial if you’ve had a recent partner change, condomless sex, or another STD diagnosis. Syphilis can also be passed from pregnant individuals to their babies, making it vital to screen early in pregnancy and again during the third trimester if needed.

When to Get Tested

Blood tests can typically detect syphilis antibodies 3–6 weeks after exposure. If you’re experiencing symptoms like sores, rashes, swollen lymph nodes, or unexplained fatigue, testing immediately is recommended. If you’re asymptomatic but at risk, screening now can help prevent future complications — and protect your partners as well.

Many providers offer standalone syphilis tests or include them in larger STD panels for a broader screen.

How to Test Without a Doctor’s Appointment

You can test for syphilis using either a walk-in lab visit or an at-home kit — both are private and straightforward:

• Lab testing: Order online and visit a local collection site for a quick blood draw. Results are usually available in 1–3 business days.
• At-home kits: Use a finger-prick device to collect a few drops of blood and mail it to the lab using prepaid packaging.
• No insurance, ID, or clinic visit is required with either method.

Syphilis Test Options & Pricing

Discretion & Privacy

All providers listed offer secure, HIPAA-compliant testing with results delivered through a private online dashboard. No clinic visit or insurance billing is required, and you can order your test entirely online — no questions asked.

What Happens After Testing?

If your syphilis test is negative, you’ll receive a simple confirmation. If your test is positive, most providers — including myLAB Box and Priority STD Testing — offer optional telehealth consultations to help you understand your next steps and access treatment. Syphilis is curable with antibiotics, and early treatment is highly effective.

FAQs

What kind of test is used for syphilis?
Most providers use an RPR (rapid plasma reagin) blood test to detect antibodies. Some also include a confirmatory treponemal test if results are reactive.

Can I test without symptoms?
Yes. Most people with syphilis show no symptoms in the early stages. Testing is essential for prevention and public health.

Is syphilis curable?
Yes. It’s treated with antibiotics — usually penicillin. The earlier it’s caught, the easier it is to treat.

Will my results be private?
Yes. Results are only shared with you and are not reported to your insurer, employer, or medical records unless required by law in your state.

How long does it take to get results?
Lab-based tests usually return results in 1–3 business days. At-home kits may take 2–5 days after your sample is received.